Ukraine eyes 10,000 km drone range, plans U.S. tech deal; laser weapons in development

Ukraine is poised to dramatically expand the reach of its drone capabilities, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announcing plans for drones capable of traveling between 5,000 and 10,000 kilometers within the next year. Currently, Ukraine already possesses drones with a range exceeding 3,000 kilometers, a figure expected to increase to 4,000 kilometers this year. These long-range capabilities could potentially paralyze Russian targets, including far-eastern airports, military facilities, and oil terminals.

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We already have drones with a range of over 3,000 kilometers. And this year we will have 4,000 kilometers. Next year from 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers.

Zelenskyy highlighted Ukraine's ambition to forge a significant drone production agreement with the United States, emphasizing the mutual benefits of combining Ukrainian technology with American expertise. "The most important thing is technology. That's what we have. And Americans also have excellent technologies," Zelenskyy stated in an interview with blogger Laura Loomer. He noted that a draft agreement is nearly complete, outlining joint production in the U.S. with restrictions on supplying drones to "dangerous countries" and limiting sales to the U.S., Europe, and Ukraine.

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We want to conclude the largest drone deal with the United States. We promote and supply various drones: sea, air, long-range, medium and long-range assault drones.

"When we talk to American soldiers, generals, and officers, they say: 'If it weren't for your experience, America would not be able to reach this level.' America has received absolutely exclusive equipment," Zelenskyy added, underscoring the value Ukraine's battlefield experience brings to its technological advancements. The Ukrainian president also mentioned the development of naval, aerial, and assault drones of various ranges.

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The most important thing is technology. That's what we have. And Americans also have excellent technologies. Our drone agreement is therefore beneficial for both sides.

Beyond drones, Ukraine is actively developing other advanced defense technologies, including laser weapons. General Andriy Lebedienko confirmed that Ukrainian laser weapons designed to combat aerial targets are expected to be ready within the next two to three months, with development underway by both military teams and private Ukrainian companies. Additionally, Kyiv is working to expand its ground-based radar system, which has proven effective in Sumy and Kharkiv regions, providing navigation for aircraft and drones even when satellite navigation is jammed by enemy electronic warfare.

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When we talk to American soldiers, generals, and officers, they say: 'If it weren't for your experience, America would not be able to reach this level.' America has received absolutely exclusive equipment.